The roof is one of the most expansive and expensive structures on a home. So whenever there are high winds, powerful storms, or another incident that causes damage and necessitates costly repairs, most homeowners grab their checkbooks with fear.

However, if you have homeowners insurance, you may have the help you need. Learn what steps you need to take to file a claim with your insurance company.

Investigate Your Policy

After you recognize damage, take a look at your insurance policy. All policies are different, and just because you have coverage does not mean that your policy covers the damage. Every insurance company has a list of exclusions. For example, some plans have roof age exclusions.

In this instance, a roof older than the specific guideline, such as 25 years, will not be covered, regardless of the damage. Some policies also limit coverage for structures made from particular materials.

Your policy will also provide you with details about your deductible. Overall, investigating your policy first gives you an opportunity to gauge just how much of an out-of-pocket expense you should expect.

Act Fast

When it comes to filing an insurance claim, time is of the essence. All insurance companies have a statute of limitations, or time limits, by which an insurance claim must be filed for damage, such as 12 months. Similar to policy exclusions, once this period expires, you will be unable to file a successful claim for damages.

For best results, have a roof inspection performed to give you a clearer idea of the extent of the damage. However, keep in mind that to file a roof claim, you don't necessarily have to know the extent of your roof damage.

To file a claim, you only need to know that your roof is damaged.  To keep your out-of-pocket cost to a minimum, don't hesitate. File your claim as quickly as possible. 

Gather Evidence

Filing a claim for roof damage is like filing an insurance claim for any other damage in that you must be able to prove what you're claiming. Start the collection process by taking pictures of the roof. You want to take a picture of the exterior of the roof as well as any interior damage caused by the problems with the roof, such as a leak.

If you recently had your roof repaired or replaced, make a copy of the invoice. This record of previous work will help when the insurance company attempts to assess the condition of your roof before the damage occurred. Lastly, make a copy of the inspection you had performed and submit the documentation with your claim to provide further detail on the level of damage.

Hire a Professional

Insurance companies are very particular when it comes to who they authorize to perform roof repairs. While there are some insurance companies that submit a check directly to the property owner and allow them to pay for repairs directly, some insurance companies pay the repair company themselves.

If the insurance company you hire to repair your roof is not licensed, the insurance company may deny your claim. Always partner with a professional not only to ensure your claim is approved but also to ensure your roof is repaired or replaced the correct way.

When you file an insurance claim for roof damage, prompt action is vital. The faster you file a claim, the sooner you can have your roof repaired. At Econo Roofing, whether it's roof repair or a complete roof replacement, we have the  skill , experience, and qualifications to meet all your roofing needs. Call us when you need roofing repairs.  ​